Remembering my grandparents

When I started my first blog, I focused on personal events like vacations and time with family. That has changed but this weekend is the 20^th anniversary of my grandfather’s death, and I couldn’t help but reflect.   Without getting melancholic, I wanted to point out that while I don’t think of my grandparents every day, they really are never far from my thoughts.

Grandpa Len and Cape Cod Nana

My father’s parents lived in Cape Cod when I was a kid and to differentiate my paternal and maternal grandmothers we called my Dad’s Mom, “Cape Cod Nana”.   I don’t get any bonus points for creativity, but I’m glad it stuck because whenever Cape Cod is mentioned, she always comes to mind. Likewise, although “Grandpa Len” was retired when I was alive, his long career at Jordan Marsh – a Boston-based department – makes me think of him whenever I pass through Downtown Crossing or visit the South End coffee shop, Wholy Grain, which sells Jordan Marsh blueberry muffins.

Nana and Papa

My mother’s parents outlived my paternal grandparents so I have more memories of them. Nana and Papa played host to more sleepovers than I can hope to count. Backyard barbeques, holidays, family celebrations and more meals than one could ever imagine were had at the family house in Winchester and dominate my childhood memories.

The best gift my grandparents ever gave me (aside from my parents) is the memories I have of my time with them. I’m not one to fixate on loss and I prefer to think about all I’ve gained from having them in my life. They have certainly enriched it – even twenty years later.